As with any type of surgery, there are certain preparations that need to take place before a tummy tuck procedure. There are a number of things patients can do before the operation that will help both the recovery from the operation and the ultimate result.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for tummy tuck surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins, and medications.
Whether your tummy tuck is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, you should arrange for someone to drive you home. You should alslo arrange for someone to assist you out for a day or two after you leave the hospital. You need to mentally prepare for the procedure and the changes you will need in your lifestyle and dietary habits.
Tummy Tuck Preparation Checklist:
- Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications
- Do not smoke for at least 2 weeks before your procedure
- Make arrangements to have someone drive you to and from the operation
- Arrange for someone to care for you the first day or two after the operation
- Fill any prescriptions before the surgery
- Prepare meals or arrange for someone to help with cooking
- Set up a home recovery area
- Set up a telephone with speaker phone near your bed
- Prepare Icepacks to reduce post-op swelling
- Consider hand-held shower head and bathroom chair
- Telephone with speaker phone near your bed
- On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing which will be easy to get off and on after operation
- Follow your physician's directions carefully regarding medications, eating & drinking, etc.
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